Biobest UK has launched a new osmoregulator to help optimize marketable yields of high value crops by protecting plants from environmental stresses.
“After a foliar application of Bluestim® it has been scientifically proven that plants are less susceptible to issues such as blossom end rot, cracking and tip burn,” explains Biobest UK’s technical sales manager, Tim Crittenden. “Fruits are generally firmer, less susceptible to post harvest pathogens and therefore shelf life is improved.
“As the weather warms up, plants are often more sensitive to abiotic stresses – such as temperature changes and draughts, as well as water and salt stresses. Left unchecked, this can significantly impact marketable yields of crops such as tomatoes and strawberries.”
“Containing 97% pure Glycine-betaine – a natural sugar beet extract – Bluestim improves plants’ resistance to hydric stress and protects against a range of abiotic stresses,” explains Tim. “Recommended for foliar application at a rate of 2kg per ha, it is rapidly absorbed, circulated around the whole plant within 24 hours and remains effective for 3-4 weeks.”
Better recovery
In tomatoes, Bluestim acts to reduce blossom end rot and cracking while boosting marketable yields of shiny tomatoes. In blueberries, it has been shown to reduce the incidence of cracking and sun-scalded fruit, while promoting larger berries. In blackberries Bluestim results in firmer fruits in spring and autumn, while in raspberries it also reduces micro-cracks and susceptibility to post-harvest pathogens improving shelf life. In addition, berry growers are seeing less tip burn and better recovery of plants after cold storage.
In ornamentals, cutting quality has been improved by treating mother plants. Bluestim also provides protection against drought, cold and water stress in a range of non-edible crops.
Concluding Tim says: “All in all, Bluestim is a welcome addition to the grower toolbox helping high value crops cope with a range of environmental stresses and delivering a range of tangible benefits to optimize marketable yield.”
Biobest